Lynn Rush

This book was such an emotional roller coaster. But in the best of ways. I was in love with the character of Lina right from the beginning and I only loved her character more as the book went on. She was so much stronger than she realized and gave herself credit for. I can't imagine dealing with agoraphobia. And the fact that Lina was doing her best to overcome it just showed how strong she was. Even when she didn't always meet her goals, Lina didn't give up. She tried again and again. Going through her journey with her was an incredible thing. And I love the way Lynn Rush wrote her character. It certainly left me wanting to read more about Lina.

And then there was Hunter. Wow. Talk about a great book boyfriend! He had it all going on and didn't even realize it. He was also going through his own issues and, I won't spoil anything, but when his secrets were revealed, I was blown away. I definitely didn't see it coming. And that isn't the only twist that was within this book. There was more than enough mystery and suspense to keep me on the edge of my seat. And I honestly never saw the twists and turns coming. That's how you know you're reading an exceptional book. Unexpected twists and turns keep things interesting and this one had that in spades.

The way Hunter and Lina were drawn to one another was a beautiful thing. And the progression of their relationship was so real. The depth of their characters was beyond incredible. And it was just another part of this book that kept me hooked. This is the first book by Lynn Rush I've read, but after the great experience I've had reading 'Limitless', this certainly won't be the last book I read by her. The story flowed in a natural way and it felt like it took me no time at all to read it. Plus it left me wanting to read more. I loved these characters and Lynn Rush definitely had me feeling an emotional attachment to them.

I strongly recommend this book to anyone who loves romantic suspense novels, strong, independent females, and protective male characters who wear their hearts on their sleeves and love with everything they have.… (mer)

This is a sweet, very young story about love and ice hockey in late high school. I suspect it is classified as YA Christian fiction... I do read a bit of both occasionally, so I am open to finding a gem in these romance sub-genres, but overall, they are not my favourite, and the two sub-genres together in one book, well, we aren't off to a great start.

The story has a lot of potential - (I'm 1/5 of the way through but I'm making a note now, in case I may not get back to this book) - it's about a young woman whose dreams of ice dancing are dashed, but who finds an outlet on the ice when she is seen to have an incredible natural talent as a goalie.

Brodie, the hockey star, comes to life perfectly in the hands of a narrator Nick Mondelli. And Bailey Carr does well too, as Willow.… (mer)

3.5 Stars

CW: Death of mother in car accident - killed by drunk driver, father spirals into depression and is unable to cope (alcoholism, loss of family business), sports injuries, sexist attitudes to women in sport - challenged, another set of parents are in relationship counselling.

Well I am stoked to have found another YA romance that will appeal to older teens.

I don't mind the odd cookie-cutter, cheesy romance story. However, I think romances are better when there are some real life issues that the main characters are grappling with. This gives the story more depth, and the characters feel more authentic. Plus, stuff actually happens with conflicts arising and paths diverging or coming together. I am also thrilled to have another YA story with an ambitious and talented sportswoman. I liked the dual POV and found both characters relatable and likeable. A great addition to the library.… (mer)